Noni Stotts

Written by Noni Stotts

Published: 25 Dec 2024

35-facts-about-public-universal-friend
Source: Npr.org

Who was the Public Universal Friend? Born in 1752, the Public Universal Friend was originally known as Jemima Wilkinson. After a severe illness in 1776, Wilkinson claimed to have died and been resurrected as a genderless evangelist named the Public Universal Friend. This figure preached across the northeastern United States, gaining followers and establishing a community called the Society of Universal Friends. The Friend's teachings focused on peace, equality, and simplicity, challenging traditional gender roles and religious norms of the time. Despite facing skepticism and opposition, the Public Universal Friend left a lasting impact on early American religious movements.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Public Universal Friend, born as Jemima Wilkinson, defied societal norms and preached repentance, celibacy, and communal living, leaving a significant impact on American religious history.
  • The Friend's rejection of gendered pronouns, emphasis on communal living, and influence on gender equality and pacifism continue to inspire discussions about identity and spirituality in America.
Table of Contents

Who Was the Public Universal Friend?

The Public Universal Friend was a unique figure in American history. Born in 1752, this person defied societal norms and embraced a new identity after a near-death experience.

  1. The Public Universal Friend was born as Jemima Wilkinson in Cumberland, Rhode Island.
  2. In 1776, Wilkinson fell seriously ill and claimed to have died and been resurrected by God.
  3. After this experience, Wilkinson adopted the name Public Universal Friend and refused to use gendered pronouns.
  4. The Friend preached a message of repentance, celibacy, and communal living.
  5. Followers of the Friend were known as the Society of Universal Friends.

The Friend's Teachings and Beliefs

The Public Universal Friend's teachings were a blend of Quakerism, Methodism, and other Christian denominations. The Friend's messages focused on spirituality and moral living.

  1. The Friend emphasized the importance of living a sin-free life.
  2. Celibacy was a key aspect of the Friend's teachings, encouraging followers to abstain from marriage and sexual relations.
  3. The Friend believed in the imminent return of Christ and the need for repentance.
  4. Communal living was promoted, with followers sharing resources and living together.
  5. The Friend's teachings included a strong emphasis on pacifism and non-violence.

The Friend's Followers and Community

The Society of Universal Friends was a tight-knit community that followed the teachings of the Public Universal Friend. They established settlements and lived according to the Friend's principles.

  1. The Society of Universal Friends was founded in 1783.
  2. The community established a settlement in the Finger Lakes region of New York.
  3. Members of the Society were known for their distinctive dress, often wearing plain, modest clothing.
  4. The Friend's followers included both men and women, with many women taking on leadership roles.
  5. The Society practiced communal ownership of property and resources.

Controversies and Challenges

The Public Universal Friend and the Society of Universal Friends faced numerous challenges and controversies throughout their existence. These included legal battles, societal opposition, and internal conflicts.

  1. The Friend was often accused of blasphemy and heresy by mainstream religious groups.
  2. Legal disputes over land ownership and communal property were common.
  3. The Friend faced personal attacks and slander from detractors.
  4. Internal conflicts sometimes arose within the Society, leading to divisions and splinter groups.
  5. Despite these challenges, the Friend remained a steadfast leader until their death in 1819.

The Friend's Legacy

The legacy of the Public Universal Friend is complex and multifaceted. While the Society of Universal Friends eventually dissolved, the Friend's impact on American religious history remains significant.

  1. The Friend's rejection of gendered pronouns was groundbreaking for the time.
  2. The emphasis on communal living influenced later utopian communities in America.
  3. The Friend's teachings on celibacy and pacifism resonated with other religious movements.
  4. The Friend's life and work have been the subject of numerous historical studies and biographies.
  5. The Friend's legacy continues to inspire discussions about gender, identity, and spirituality.

Interesting Anecdotes and Lesser-Known Facts

Beyond the major events and teachings, there are many intriguing anecdotes and lesser-known facts about the Public Universal Friend and the Society of Universal Friends.

  1. The Friend was known for wearing a distinctive black robe and a wide-brimmed hat.
  2. The Friend often traveled on horseback, preaching in various towns and settlements.
  3. The Friend's followers included several prominent families in early American society.
  4. The Friend was known for performing faith healings and other miracles.
  5. The Friend's teachings attracted a diverse group of followers, including former slaves and Native Americans.

The Friend's Influence on Later Movements

The Public Universal Friend's influence extended beyond their lifetime, impacting various religious and social movements in America.

  1. The Friend's emphasis on gender equality influenced early feminist movements.
  2. The communal living practices of the Society of Universal Friends inspired later utopian communities like the Shakers.
  3. The Friend's teachings on pacifism resonated with the Quaker movement and other peace-oriented groups.
  4. The Friend's rejection of traditional gender roles has been cited as an early example of non-binary identity.
  5. The Friend's life and work continue to be studied by historians, theologians, and scholars interested in American religious history.

The Legacy of Public Universal Friend

Public Universal Friend, a fascinating figure from American history, continues to intrigue and inspire. Born Jemima Wilkinson in 1752, they transformed into a genderless evangelist after a near-death experience in 1776. Their life challenged societal norms, advocating for equality and spiritual awakening. The Friend's followers, known as the Society of Universal Friends, embraced these progressive ideals, creating a community that valued inclusivity.

Despite facing skepticism and opposition, Public Universal Friend's message of love and acceptance left a lasting impact. Their story reminds us of the power of resilience and the importance of challenging conventions. By exploring their life, we gain insight into the complexities of identity and the enduring quest for social justice. Public Universal Friend's legacy lives on, encouraging us to embrace diversity and strive for a more inclusive world.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who was Public Universal Friend?
Public Universal Friend was a unique and fascinating figure in American history, emerging in the late 18th century. After experiencing a severe illness in 1776, this individual claimed to have died and been reborn free of gender, adopting the name Public Universal Friend and refusing to answer to their birth name. They became a charismatic preacher, advocating for gender neutrality and leading a group of followers known as the Society of Universal Friends.
What did Public Universal Friend believe in?
This remarkable individual preached messages of universal love, equality, and the imminent return of Jesus Christ. Rejecting traditional gender roles and identities, Public Universal Friend's teachings also emphasized pacifism, abolitionism, and a communal way of living. Their beliefs were quite progressive for the time, challenging societal norms and advocating for a more inclusive community.
How did Public Universal Friend dress?
Public Universal Friend defied conventional gender norms not only through their teachings but also in their appearance. They often wore androgynous clothing, which, during that era, typically meant long, flowing robes. This choice of attire was a visual representation of their rejection of gender identity and an assertion of their spiritual rebirth.
Where did Public Universal Friend and their followers settle?
In the late 1790s, Public Universal Friend and a group of followers established a settlement in what is now Western New York, near present-day Penn Yan. This community, known as the New Jerusalem, was founded on the principles of equality, shared resources, and a commitment to pacifism. It attracted a diverse group of individuals, including many who were disillusioned with mainstream society.
Did Public Universal Friend write any books or have any writings?
While Public Universal Friend did not author any books personally, their teachings and sermons were meticulously documented by followers. These writings provide valuable insights into their beliefs, preaching style, and the societal impact they had. Additionally, several biographies and historical accounts have been written about their life and the movement they led.
How did society react to Public Universal Friend?
Reactions to Public Universal Friend were mixed. Some admired their courage in challenging societal norms and were drawn to their message of universal love and equality. Others, however, viewed them with suspicion and hostility, often due to their unconventional beliefs and rejection of gender identity. Despite facing opposition, Public Universal Friend maintained a significant following and left a lasting impact on American religious history.
Is the legacy of Public Universal Friend still alive today?
Yes, the legacy of Public Universal Friend continues to resonate, especially within LGBTQ+ and non-binary communities. Their life and teachings are seen as early examples of gender nonconformity and advocacy for equality. Scholars and activists often reference Public Universal Friend in discussions about gender identity and religious freedom, highlighting their pioneering role in American history.

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